Local congressman inspires young political enthusiast

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW) -- The People to People Student Ambassadors have been meeting at St. Mark's for the entire school year now, but Sunday's meeting was different -- especially for one young man who has big political dreams.

"He's really into that and he loves seeing the different viewpoints," said 16-year-old Deanna Doughty, a People to People ambassador. "He's actually a card-carrying Republican right now."

Deanna is talking about her younger brother, Dane. At 13 years old, he's discovered a true passion for politics.

"My grandpa started me going to the Republican Party meetings a couple of months ago, and I've been going ever since," Dane said.

A passion for politics and a passion for traveling sparked by living in England when he was a young boy.

"I just wanted to get to know other countries and their cultures," Dane said.

That's what led him to the People to People Ambassador program, and the chance to talk one-on-one with Congressman John Barrow.

"What I really care about is the opportunity these young people have," said Congressman Barrow of the 12th Congressional District.

The program sends a group of local students overseas. A day like Sunday is preparing Dane to bridge international gaps.

"One of the things you're going to carry into your adulthood is representing us as an ambassador of goodwill of our country to these others," Barrow said.

But talking to the congressman was more than just trip preparation for Dane.

"I've been wanting to talk to Congressman Barrow for a long time," Dane said. "I just really like politics because it gets you involved with the workings of our country."

And the advice Barrow gave to a young, inspired mind like Dane's?

"Care enough to get involved. We know you care enough to complain but care enough to get involved," Barrow said.

Online Public Information File

Viewers with disabilities can get assistance accessing this station's FCC Public Inspection File by contacting the station with the information listed below. Questions or concerns relating to the accessibility of the FCC's online public file system should be directed to the FCC at 888-225-5322, 888-835-5322 (TTY), or fccinfo@fcc.gov.